Embattled NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick is getting support for his silent protest from an unlikely place: US military veterans.
On Friday, Kaepernick sparked controversy after he was seen on the sideline, sitting in silence during the national anthem. He later said that he was "not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color."
His choice to sit during the anthem sparked plenty of debate, and even Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump chimed in.
But on Tuesday, a new hashtag — #VeteransForKaepernick — emerged in his support on Twitter, with many veterans saying the 49ers quarterback's right to free speech was exactly what they swore to defend.
Here's a sampling:
When I enlisted I swore to defend the Constitution- including the 1st amendment (not to defend the flag) #VeteransForKaepernick
— Richard Howard (@VASurgChief) August 31, 2016#VeteransForKaepernick because when I'm not in uniform, the dog avi'd crew doesn't give a damn about my treatment pic.twitter.com/AcKyCEZOv4
— Obeah Woman (@LovelyLadyNeka) August 31, 2016
I will always fight for the right to speak. #VeteransForKaepernick try looking Black 1 day and a Muslim the next... pic.twitter.com/NAGAM2Vf55
— Lysus - Philipe (@Lysus_Gaming) August 31, 2016
I may not agree with Kaepernick. But I agree that I defended everyone's freedom of speech #VeteransForKaepernickpic.twitter.com/ua8ESUg7zH
— Antonio Ramirez (@Antonio_Ramir3z) August 31, 2016#veteransforkaepernick I served this country to help defend the constitution of the United States. I support him!! pic.twitter.com/QdEMgEjYhX
— Jarron Taylor (@JarronDTaylor) August 31, 2016
because everyone deserves life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness #VeteransForKaepernick#VeteransForBlackLivespic.twitter.com/HdzAwMi8eF
— Buffalo Wings (@jamiepinkham) August 31, 2016
I served for EVERYONE'S freedom. Don't presume to speak for me. I got this. #VeteransForKaepernickpic.twitter.com/ybGxE896wP
— Emmy Jay (@emeraldjaguar) August 31, 2016
Agree or disagree with him - Free speech is free speech. All the time, for everyone. #VeteransForKaepernickpic.twitter.com/iJbK8wuYE4
— Pomp (@APompliano) August 31, 2016#VeteransForKaepernick because I didn't volunteer to defend a country where police brutality is swept under the rug. pic.twitter.com/LtBkTvHHAn
— Baltic Avenue (@Baltic_Avenue) August 31, 2016
I'd never try to shame someone with "patriotism" in order to silence their 1st amend Right. #VeteransForKaepernickpic.twitter.com/OrC1vyIB2U
— Brandon Keating (@BrandonTalks) August 31, 2016SEE ALSO: This is the future of war
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